How the Free Interpreting Service (FIS) supports real estate agencies
The FIS gives real estate agencies free access to professional certified interpreters to communicate with clients who have limited English proficiency.
Real estate agents are obliged to make sure that clients properly understand details of transactions, particularly when entering into legally binding agreements, such as tenancies and sales contracts, or when explaining tenancy obligations.
Eligibility and registration
Real estate agencies are eligible to access the FIS if they:
- hold a real estate agent licence, and
- provide private residential property services (rental or sales), and
- provide services to anyone in Australia who is eligible for Medicare (Australian citizens, permanent residents and select temporary visa holders).
Eligible activities
The FIS can be used for any private residential property matter in Australia.
Ineligible activities
The FIS cannot be used for corporate non-residential property matters, such as commercial leases and sales.
Registration
A real estate agency licence number is required to apply for a FIS account code. Property managers, and office support staff working in a real estate agency registered with TIS National may access the FIS using the agency’s client code.
